The erection of a G Unit fence around the downtown block owned by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has started the usual mainstream media chatter unfounded by facts.
This temporary fence does NOT mean Jackson has committed to building a permanent dome on this property.
The erection of this fence only proves one thing—that 50 Cent spends his money in Waskom versus Shreveport for the temporary fence.
Reportedly environmental analysis will be conducted on a portion of the parking lot for contamination from a meat processing plant formerly located on a portion of the downtown block owned by Jackson.
To date Jackson has spent very little money improving/rehabilitating his downtown properties. The construction of a permanent dome will be a time-consuming process, starting with permitting. The construction process itself is time consuming and very unlikely it can be completed by Dec. 31, 2026.
Mayor Arceneaux has publicly stated that the talk of a Humor and Harmony Festival in the spring of 2026 is just that and no steps have been taken by Jackson to plan the festival with folks from City Hall.
Unfortunately, the local press promotes more speculation about Jackson’s plans for Shreveport than solid reporting on local construction that IS expanding job opportunities in the local area. Speculation is just educated guessing and it's easier to “romance” a notion than doing actual boots on the ground reporting that requires getting out on the streets.
The good news is that the fenced parking lot will reduce open drinking on this downtown vacant space and the number of violent actions that have occurred in this area. Hat’s off to Jackson for this positive step, whether it was intended or not.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.